Essentials for an Audrey Hepburn Wardrobe

by Alexandra Early

When looking for classic and chic staple pieces for your wardrobe, Audrey Hepburn is undoubtedly the best inspiration. Whether playing a role or offering her kindnesses as a humanitarian, Hepburn always managed to look glamorous and serve as a trendsetter. Hepburn’s look, especially in her role as Holly Golightly in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” is easily achievable by obtaining a few distinctive staples for your closet.

1. Little Black Dress

There’s nothing more classic and versatile than a little black dress, and every girl needs one in her closet. Little black dresses can be dressed up or down and always present a timeless and sophisticated image. Hepburn wore several little black dresses in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” but she is most famous for a form-fitted, streamlined look with a rounded neckline, partially open back, cinched natural waist and a hem that rests mid-calf. Hepburn’s slender body type rocked this look, but pay attention to your own shape to find what fits best. For an hourglass shape, try a little black wrap dress to define your figure, and for an apple shape, try a dress that sits above the knee to elongate your lower body.

2. Tortoiseshell Glasses

Tortoiseshell glasses with olive green lenses are a great staple piece that complements almost any outfit. Hepburn’s sunglasses in "Breakfast at Tiffany’s" were rounded with a slight cat-eye shape. Again, this look might not complement all faces, but consider other styles to achieve a similar look that flatters your features. For a heart-shaped face, try a rounded cat-eye style; for an oval face, try an angular style and for a round face, try a squared style.

3. Layered Strings of Pearls

Pearls are a staple accessory when it comes to timeless elegance, and strings of pearls are also distinctly Audrey. When accessorizing that classic little black dress, consider a string of pearls, perhaps one with a center-statement feature, to really channel Hepburn’s distinct look. Choose sea pearls that are perfectly rounded in a classic single-strand length or pick a longer length so you can double up to create a layered look.

4. Classic Trench Coat

Pick a knee-length khaki trench coat with a classic folded collar and a tie or buckle belt. Hepburn rocked the trench on and off the movie set, so also consider a trench coat in a slightly different style featuring two lines of buttons down the front and buckles around the hems of the sleeves. Khaki may be an Audrey essential, but trenches also look cute in brighter colors as well, so don’t be afraid to try an updated inspired by this classic fashion.